TOEFL Reading texts are mainly:

**The reasoning** TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is designed to measure your ability to understand and use English in an **academic environment** — specifically, university-level study. Since universities require you to read textbooks, research papers, and scholarly articles, TOEFL tests your ability to handle *academic passages*. These are texts about science, history, social studies, or arts written in formal, educational language — exactly what you'd encounter in a lecture hall or library. **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **A) Newspaper headlines** — Too short and informal. TOEFL passages are longer (300-700 words) and more detailed. - **C) Poetry** — Uses figurative, artistic language. TOEFL focuses on clear, informational prose. - **D) Short stories** — Creative fiction with plots and characters. TOEFL texts explain concepts, not tell stories. **Quick takeaway** TOEFL = academic reading, because it's preparing you for university-level English in subjects like biology, history, and sociology — not creative writing or casual news.